Geelong Holiday Inn Men’s Match Preview: Royals host Box Hill in penultimate game of NPL3 season

The stage is set for a thrilling showdown as Essendon Royals SC prepares to host Box Hill United FC at Cross Keys Reserve this Friday at 8:15 PM. With the penultimate round of the game upon us, the stakes are high, and the anticipation is palpable.

Sitting at 10th on the ladder, the Royals remain in a precarious position heading into Round 21. A win is not just desired; it’s crucial. With Geelong and Ballarat breathing down their necks, the Royals must seize this opportunity to secure their place in the league. The recent 4-1 triumph over Boroondara-Carey Eagles has injected a much-needed boost of confidence into the team, and coach Mick Ferrante will be keen to ensure that his lads carry that momentum into this game.

The memory of the 2-2 draw against Box Hill in their last encounter still lingers. The Royals, having hit the woodwork multiple times, felt they should have won that game. This time, they’ll be out for redemption. With the lethal combination of Davey Van’t Schip and Dean Clarke, who have shown a clinical eye for goal, the Royals have the firepower to turn the tables. Clarke, in particular, has been in scintillating form, proving that he can score if given even just half a yard of space anywhere near the box.

Box Hill United FC, currently 8th on the ladder, will not be an easy opponent. With players like Nikita Varelas and Michael Romas, who have netted eight and five goals this season respectively, they pose a significant threat. The Royals will need to be on their guard to neutralize these danger men.

The bye week has provided both teams with a chance to regroup and refocus. It’s a double-edged sword, offering rest and recovery but also posing the challenge of maintaining momentum. The team that manages this balance better may find themselves with a crucial edge.

The Royals have everything to play for, and with the support of the home crowd, they’ll be aiming to put on a performance to remember.

To celebrate our final home game of the season, the club has brought back the Spiducci King for some more delicious Spiducci, meaning you’ll have premium football food to enjoy while watching the Royals in action.

Join us at Cross Keys Reserve for what promises to be an enthralling contest.